2021 Hyundai Tucson
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 185 |
| 2006 | 135 |
| 2007 | 65 |
| 2008 | 43 |
| 2009 | 18 |
| 2010 | 58 |
| 2011 | 124 |
| 2012 | 255 |
| 2013 | 266 |
| 2014 | 201 |
| 2015 | 226 |
| 2016 | 1617 |
| 2017 | 1084 |
| 2018 | 394 |
| 2019 | 377 |
| 2020 | 175 |
| 2021 | 78 |
| 2022 | 379 |
| 2023 | 132 |
| 2024 | 94 |
| 2025 | 278 |
| 2026 | 59 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
49% of complaints: engine — 38 distinct reports on file.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact called on behalf of his girlfriend who owned a 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH in the driveway, there was steam coming out from under the hood. There was no warning light illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230731
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine blew. No warning lights were illuminated. There was white smoke coming from the hood of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260811
I was driving down [XXX] from my house.My engine light started to flash.I tried to accelerate my car barely went 10 miles an hour.I got Home 2 minutes later.There was major knocking.I had the car towed to [XXX], Hyundai, the only code that is...
NHTSA ODI report, 20260718
15% of complaints: service brakes — 12 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
14% of complaints: electrical system — 11 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: power train — 8 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles on September 4, 2020. On December 30, 2020, Hyundai expanded the recall population, and added certain 2016-2018 Tucson vehicles.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HECU fuse. For 2019-2021 model years, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) software will also be updated. Recall repairs will be performed free of charge.
Campaign 20V543000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Hyundai Tucson — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (38 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V543000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Hyundai Tucson reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Tucson?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 49% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Tucson have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.